General Information

Government Type

Special Service District

Entity

Sanpete Conservation District

Public Body

Board of Supervisors

Notice Information

Add Notice to Calendar

Notice Title

Meeting Minutes

Notice Type(s)

Meeting

Event Start Date & Time

July 9, 2026 10:00 AM

Event End Date & Time

July 9, 2026 10:00 AM

Event Deadline Date & Time

07/09/26 10:00 AM

Description/Agenda

Meeting Minutes SANPETE CONSERVATION DISTRICT Thursday, July 9th, 2026 Time: 10:00 A.M. USDA Service Center LOCATION: 32 East 450 North Ephraim Utah, 84627 NRCS Conference Room ________________________________________ ATTENDANCE: SURPERVISORS: Michael Larson, Scott Sunderland, Bruce Christenson, Scott Mower Excused: Thomas Blackham Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS): Wade Ingram (District Conservationist), Joanna Justesen (NRCS PSS-Admin Assistant) CD clerk, Christian Lund (Soil Conservationist), Zach Farnsworth (Natural Resource Conservationist), Joe Tippets (Resource Conservationist), Excused: James Longmore (UACD-NRCS) Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF): ) BreeAnn Bloomfield (Watershed Planner) Lucy (Division of Water Quality), JP Contreras (Resource Coordinator) 1. Agenda: Welcome and Introductions: a) Thomas moved to approve the agenda, and Scott seconded. Meeting minutes for the next meeting need approval; the June minutes inaccurately reported actions from a closed session as occurring after it. Mike will collaborate with Joanna to rephrase and reorganize the minutes for clearer distinction between closed and open sessions. c) The board members authorized contracts and gave their signatures in the folders. Wade discussed additional contracts that would be completed by the next district meeting, and planners will bring these contracts for presentation at that time. The meeting is now returning to open session, with Thomas Blackham proposing a motion and Scott Sunderland seconding it. The motion passed, and the board is moving into the second phase of the district meeting. 3. Clerk Report: Joanna reported the following items: a) The July 9, 2026, agenda was approved. Thomas moved to approve the agenda, and Scott seconded b) Minutes from June 11th will be rewritten and re-uploaded after Mike collaborates with Joanna to rephrase and reorganize the minutes for clearer distinction between closed and open sessions. c) Joanna communicated that reimbursement tracking would not be required for signing. The transparency report has been revised and re-sent to Kramer due to the absence of the Revenue section. Joanna also noted that the next meeting will include conflict of interest documents, self-evaluation forms, and fraud risk assessments to facilitate early submission. All reports have now been updated on the state auditor's website. Mike inquired whether everything had been uploaded, and the end-of-July transparency deadline was discussed. It was brought to attention that the entity information has been outdated for a year. Tracy and I will coordinate with relevant parties to facilitate the necessary changes. Mike received a message from Tracy indicating that Joanna has made considerable efforts to address all responsibilities. Mike expressed the board's appreciation for Joanna's proactive approach and willingness to ask questions to resolve issues and obtain essential information for the district's benefit. 3.Financial Business: CD Board a) A deposit of $180.00 was made for the Snow College no-till drill. James deposited $4,800.00 in cash for the truck amount. Joanna informed the board that James intended to discuss additional topics but recommended waiting until the planners had completed their project presentations. Mike presented insurance information regarding NACD Benefits for coverage policies on James. No check is needed currently. A bill was issued for Snow College and the Weed Board North End; they are actively working on two projects. The Sanpete Conservation District purchased spray for these projects. b) Joanna received the invoice. Mike ordered new checks for the account, which were scheduled to arrive today but have not yet been delivered. A check totaling $5,660.42 was approved and written in June. c) FA students may participate in spraying operations. Joanna's billing relates to the closed session of the meeting. There are no additional payments required. Payment for Joanna should be made from the MM account. Charges incurred by James are to be debited. d) Service Summary: - $20 Maverick pickup - $10.66 Maverick for pickup (dated 6/20) - $41.30 Deluxe running fee 4.Board Business: (Board Members) Upcoming Projects and or Meetings: I. July 21, 2026 at 9:00 am located at the east court room II. August 6, 2026 San Pitch Watershed meeting a) Mike asked if there were any upcoming meetings where we might need to use SERA funds. Breeann mentioned the Sanpitch Watershed Meeting, scheduled for the first Thursday of August, which will be the 6th. Mike suggested making a motion to use SERA for the meeting. b) Bruce attended the Nephi CIG meeting and informed us about his attendance. Mike noted that to be compensated for the meeting, the agenda and mileage details are needed. Breeann said she could get the agenda to either Mike or Bruce, and JP confirmed this as well. It was agreed that travel expenses could be covered. c) Mike made a motion to approve; Scott Sunderland made the motion, and Scott Mower seconded it. The motion carried. If you plan on attending other meetings, make sure to have proper documentation for compensation payouts later. d) Breeann wants to ask the board about the San pitch Education Week. Mike thinks we should repeat it. Breeann asked if there would be a theme. JP interjected and mentioned that Courtney Breeze had contacted him regarding themes and education weeks, and she will be organizing everything moving forward. e) Previously, education was done for 4th grade. JP said it could be for grades 3-6. Breeann felt teachers would want to see this event happen again. A Field Day may be planned later in the year, before the UACD convention since that will be in November, during the middle of the week, most likely landing on a Thursday. f) The Cattlemen's Association and Farm Bureaus will participate in events scheduled for October. Breeann discussed the various stations and highlighted the teachers' and students' appreciation for the poster education week initiative. 5. UDAF Business: Jp Contreras (Resource Coordinator), BreeAnn Bloomfield (Watershed Planner) a) Updates: JP talked about changes in program management. Katie O. will now lead water operations. Tony, who previously managed Water Optimization, is moving to oversee AG VIP. All AG VIP applications have been submitted, and that period has ended. Bruce asked who made the final decision on the applications and wondered if the commissioner was responsible. He emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity in the process. b) ARDL: (JP Contreras) Jp brought to the board's attention that the Governor has declared a state of emergency in Utah due to recent fires; however, Sanpete County does not appear to be affected at this time. This declaration applies to current and all future fires for the remainder of the year. JP is uncertain how this may impact the sub-program within the current ARDL fund and will consult with Sara to determine the maximum number of applicants for the EDRL program. Currently, six contracts are scheduled for review during the closed session. These constitute JP's updates for the open session of the meeting. Scott Sunderland inquired about collars in relation to the fires. JP referenced the Monroe fire and suggested that Wade Ingram could provide additional details. Wade clarified that collars are available and are considered a cost-shareable practice. While originally implemented for fire-affected individuals, they will now be offered broadly, which is beneficial. However, there are supply challenges due to backlog issues. Scott also asked about cow calves impacted by the fires. Wade reported positive feedback and noted that significant fire mitigation activities would commence in the Piute area, with further information anticipated from an upcoming Monday meeting. Regarding collars for both the Silver King and Monroe fires, NRCS is assessing whether funding should come from current year allocations or if new fire-specific funds should be requested. At present, no updates have been received, but there is optimism that financial support will become available for those affected. This assistance is intended primarily for infrastructure such as fences and troughs rather than for replacement of livestock. Occasionally, Forest Service or DWR can act more quickly than NRCS due to differences in contracting and timing; NRCS often collaborates with these organizations to expedite assistance. For example, following the Silver King fire, access to the mountain for inventory assessment was restricted, requiring coordination with Piute County Commissioners and CD. Reports indicate a 20% loss of cattle across the region, as burnt cattle continue to be discovered in various areas including meadows and secluded locations. Scott raised a question regarding preventative measures for the monsoon season and potential flooding. Wade referenced ongoing sandbagging efforts in Eureka and noted that the upcoming Monday meeting will initiate Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) to safeguard life, liberty, and property, including aspects such as irrigation systems. Although these measures are not strictly preventative, they provide essential aftercare protection; for example, Monroe's culinary system for Birdville near the power plant. Mike asserted his belief that such initiatives should be managed by a legitimate government entity specializing in public safety and emergency services. Teresa Bryant was mentioned for her involvement in Wayne County and Piute, while Jeff Gallagher oversees the current zone, which includes Millard and Sanpete counties. JP informed board members that a meeting is scheduled for next week to prevent overlapping fund applications, addressing common confusion regarding application procedures. Scott Sunderland inquired about CD Board involvement, to which Wade and JP affirmed active participation, particularly from Piute Board members. Scott Mower highlighted the positive impact of soil loosening after a fire, achieved with machinery, on vegetation growth and overall development. Wade spoke about the suitability of Monroe Mountain for treatment areas, and board members discussed publicly demonstrating the post-fire benefits to foster understanding of fire's role in soil regeneration and future growth. Mike emphasized the need to educate the public about the aftermath of fires, rather than focusing solely on pre- and during-fire conditions. c) Watershed: (BreeAnn Bloomfield): Breeann reported that Fish lake Forest Services released maps detailing past treatment areas, including mechanical methods and prescribed burns, which have influenced fire trajectories. Mike added that substantial work has been completed on the north end of the county, and a tour was conducted in the Sanpete mountains. Bruce asked how the CD Board could further support these initiatives. Mike responded that he collaborates with the county commission, which meets monthly with Sanpete Forest supervisors. The next meeting is scheduled for July 21st, 2026, at 9 am; however, Mike will be attending the NACD Summer Convention in Michigan and cannot participate, nor can Scott Sunderland. Mike requested another board member attend in their place. Wade revisited Bruce's inquiry, suggesting increased engagement through SFP and LWG meetings, emphasizing the importance of irrigation and water management. Over the past five years, brush management following statewide fires has become increasingly significant, and Wade views such involvement as beneficial to both state and county operations. Mike noted ongoing efforts to establish the 'Good Neighbor' agreement with the Forest Service and extended this model to Zone 4 and commission members. Discussions included project types, partner and sole partner projects, and the desire to enhance public awareness of CD involvement and contributions beyond current recognition. The board aims to clarify the role of CDs, their necessity, and their impact to better inform the public about their functions. Bruce returned to Scott Mower's earlier point about the July 21st meeting, confirming attendance needs for the 9 am session in the East Courtroom. As Scott Mower cannot attend Tuesday's meeting, Bruce will represent the board, and Breeann noted that SERA funds may be utilized for these meetings. Breeann proceeded to discuss upcoming San pitch watershed education days as well as the scheduled meeting for the San pitch Watershed Group. Additionally, nonpoint source watershed contracts are slated for review during the closed session portion of the meeting. Breeann mentioned the San pitch Watershed Meeting, scheduled for the first Thursday of August, which will land on the 6th. 6. NRCS Business: a) Wade reported that the initial allocation is a 100% obligation of $5 million. The next allocation, managed by NRCS, continues to receive returning funds and is currently being processed. As the Sanpete SFP enters its final year, the team agreed that any remaining funds from Wayne County SFP, after obligating all new additional funds to San pitch, will likely approach $1 million once everything is finalized. Wade will provide more precise figures once completion is achieved. Projects scheduled for June 28th were mentioned as moving forward on the list; among them, we had six to eight, including two CSP projects already obligated. These merely require contracting and signing to complete their obligation. Work with fire-related projects and CSP payments is planned for September. Looking ahead to 2026, there are over 300 applications so far, with more arriving daily. There are contracts planned that the board must review during the closed session, which concludes the current NRCS update. b) Wade briefly revisited NRCS business, noting that the organization is searching for an engineer. The position is flexible regarding location anywhere in Utah. Individuals with an engineering degree who are interested in working for NRCS should consider applying before the deadline on July 20, 2026. 7. CD Employee Business: a) Updates: James is unable to attend today's meeting; therefore, Joanna will present his documents to the board members. b) The conservation planner project is 75% complete. c) CD Equipment: The bill of sale for the truck amounted to $4,800.00. James has provided information on trucks currently available for purchase to Mike. He requests clarification from the board regarding interest in acquiring another vehicle or postponing this decision, as well as whether there is intent to purchase an additional drill. If the board decides to purchase another truck, he asks whether it should be gas or diesel powered. Mike responded that he had received James's notifications about the trucks but emphasized that the board needed to decide together on the best course of action to move forward. Regarding the grant for the smaller drill, Mike suggested using watershed funds to cover the difference, saving $4,800, and potentially securing another truck in case they needed to deliver the drill. He expressed concerns about safely attaching the drill to the trailer, stating it was not safe in any way. Breeann noted that having a smaller drill could remove the need for the conservation district (CD) to own a truck; those needing the larger drill could use their own equipment, while those requiring the smaller drill could use their own vehicles. Mike pointed out that insurance would be challenging if others were towing the equipment themselves. JP interjected that he was researching a policy covering both liability and equipment for the districts in their zone. Once he reviews the policy, since liability and equipment are separate issues but would be grouped as a single payment, he will share it with the board to explain its coverage. Mike added that if people are allowed to take the drill independently, someone from the office should assist with hooking it up and unloading it. JP replied that local conservation district members could provide this assistance. Breeann mentioned that in Piute, Trevor handles all drill check-ins and check-outs, while Sevier asks local producers to help and lets them use the drill when needed. Mike recalled previous attempts at this arrangement but said no one accepted. Expressing concern about the trailer, Mike was joined by Scott Sunderland, who agreed the trailer was too light. Scott proposed investing in a smaller drill rather than another truck and requiring a 3500 or one-ton truck to tow the trailer, with an employee assisting setup. JP and Mike countered that staff involvement was problematic: the CD planner is based in Sanpete, but the grant agreement requires equal service across all districts, with 80% of time allocated to NRCS tasks and only 5% toward CD projects. Scott then asked how often a smaller drill would be used or transported. Scott said he could see the little one being utilized, if we could get the insurance coverage. People would be able to haul the little drill wherever they needed to. Mike said we could also investigate one of the drills that folds up, but then we must look into selling the current drill. Scott doesn't believe getting into another truck would be the smartest move, depending on what the rest of the board is feeling. He believes putting the money toward a smaller drill would be better use for the board members. Scott Mower said that the current trailer was probably not heavy enough for the current drill. Scott Sunderland and Mike agreed that the trailer is not heavy enough to be loading and transfer the trailer back and forth. Scott S. then said we could investigate getting a new trailer, Scott M. said that is a good idea, Mike said we would have to find something that would sit on the ground that had ramps. Mike reiterated keeping the $4,800 for future purchases and using funds from the money market account to buy a new drill. Scott Sunderland agreed if the board approves, and Breeann suggested trading in the old drill. JP will contact the Colorado dealer to assess its value. Breeann requested account statements at the next watershed meeting to review available funds. Bruce asked about spending authority; Mike clarified that committees approve projects, but the board handles spending. d) James is awaiting payment from a producer for a no-till drill rental, unsure whether the check has been deposited or given to another board member. Joe Tippets noted the producer works for Snow College, linking the $180 USU check to Utah State Extension. e) It was decided to consult a dealer regarding the drill's trade-in value and logistics, then bring options to the board for final decisions on drill or truck purchases. Mike maintains the plan to keep the $4,800 for upcoming equipment needs and wants to discuss using the money market funds for a new drill with the watershed group, as it aligns with the NPS grant requirements. The grant funds must be spent by June 30, 2027, or they will be forfeited. Other attendees wishing to present additional information to the board were invited to do so. Lucy Breeann's supervisor from the Division of Water Quality introduced herself and confirmed that there was no further information required for the board at this time. Mike proposed a motion to enter a closed session to discuss projects from producers with NRCS. Scott Mower moved, Bruce seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. Closed Session 8. Other Business: a) Other: A motion was made by Scott Mower to open the closed session, seconded by Bruce. The motion passed. During the closed meeting, several NRCS applications and state applications were reviewed, and recommendations were made. Currently, eight NRCS contracts are scheduled for signing regarding various projects, and there are two state contracts: NPS and six EDL applications. A motion was required to sign these contracts. Scott S. moved to sign the contracts and hold two of the EDL contracts; Bruce seconded, and the motion passed. Mike raised the topic of discussing Joanna Justesen's current contract and performance evaluation, which was not addressed during the initial closed session. A motion was made by Mike to enter a brief closed session for this purpose, with Bruce moving and Scott M. seconding; the motion carried and only board members remained. Upon returning to open session, Mike motioned to close the closed session and reopen the open session; Scott M. moved, Scott S. seconded, and the motion passed. The board discussed Joanna Clerk's salary for the Sanpete Conservation District. It was decided to increase her pay to $350.00 per month, retroactive to the previous month. Accordingly, she will receive an additional $100 for the prior month since her salary was not discussed at the last meeting. Scott M. moved to approve this adjustment, Scott S. seconded, and the motion passed. Joanna has prepared the invoice, but a total has not yet been included pending confirmation of the new salary. Approval was requested for Mike to process the payment; Scott M. moved, Scott S. seconded, and the motion passed. The total compensation for the current month will be $450. Mike stated that a final motion was needed to adjourn. Scott S. moved to adjourn, Bruce seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned. b) The next upcoming CD meeting will take place on Thursday, AUGUST 6TH, 2026. Located at the Ephraim Field Office 32 East 450 North Ephraim, UT 84627.

Notice of Special Accommodations (ADA)

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and services) during this meeting should notify Michael Larson, Chair

Notice of Electronic or Telephone Participation

NA

Meeting Information

Meeting Location

32 east 450 north
Ephraim, UT 84627
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Contact Name

Joanna Justesen

Contact Email

joanna.justesen@usda.gov

Contact Phone

1-385-505-7032

Notice Posting Details

Notice Posted On

July 17, 2026 02:14 PM

Notice Last Edited On

July 17, 2026 02:14 PM

Deadline Date

July 9, 2026 10:00 AM

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